Air New Zealand has announced plans to weigh a total of 10,000 passengers on departing international flights, in what it says is a Civil Aviation Authority requirement and “essential to the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft”.
The survey is taking place between May 29 and July 2, and will see customers on selected flights departing Auckland International airport being asked to step onto scales at the entrance to the gate lounge.
The aim of the survey is to establish the average weight of passengers, to inform the airline’s pilots of the expected weight and balance of a loaded aircraft.
Air New Zealand carried out a similar survey of customers on its domestic network in 2021, and with international flights now back up and running following the Covid-19 pandemic is now turning its attention to long-haul passengers.
Commenting on the move the airline’s load control improvement specialist Alastair James said:
“We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft – from the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold. For customers, crew and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey.”
The carrier stresses that the survey is voluntary, with James adding:
“We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere. No one can see your weight – not even us! It’s completely anonymous.”
What do you think about the prospect of being weighed before a flight? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
